Why Computer Science Skills Matter to the C-Suite More Than Ever: An MSCS Degree Deep Dive

C-suite leaders, driven by the need to manage their business in a constantly evolving technical landscape, need technology-related skills. As companies adapt to emerging technologies, C-suite leaders must develop tech fluency to guide their companies to success.

Nowhere is this more apparent than in the growth of IT leadership positions. “The C-suite is expanding to include more IT leaders today,” CIO.com reports, listing chief experience officer, chief AI officer, chief transformation officer and chief sustainability officer among the recent additions. IT managers can expect 15% job growth between 2022 and 2032, with over 46,000 job openings annually. U.S. News & World Report ranked IT manager #2 on its list of Best Technology Jobs, in part to reflect strong hiring prospects.

Beyond the need for technical skills to operate effectively in their roles, C-suite executives recognize the significant value of tech-savvy employees across the organization. Experienced IT professionals with robust technical expertise are crucial in influencing executive decisions and strategies. However, a recent survey shows that 70% of leaders face a skills gap that negatively impacts business; 58% plan to hire new talent in the coming year to fill the void.

This article explores the roles of computer science professionals within the C-suite and how non-technical leaders can collaborate effectively with others. For those looking to advance into in-demand IT leadership positions, an online Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) program, such as the Tufts University online MSCS degree, can bolster the technical skills and expertise needed to excel in the tech-driven business climate. 

Computer Science Knowledge in the C-Suite

Businesses need employees who can drive innovation, fuel growth, and quickly pivot to respond to market shifts to remain competitive in the digital landscape. They seek candidates with competencies in:

• Artificial intelligence: Large companies are rapidly integrating AI; more than half of all companies with 5,000 or more employees currently use AI. Adoption is especially pronounced in manufacturing, information services, healthcare, professional services, agriculture, finance and education. Smaller businesses are starting to get on board as well. As companies expand their use of AI to improve operations, employees must understand the technology and its ethical implications to effectively leverage its benefits, mitigate risks, and protect the company’s reputation. 
• Data science: Big data is revolutionizing business. From providing business intelligence to helping companies create targeted marketing plans and improve their cybersecurity, data enables companies to thrive. Employees with data science and data analytics skills facilitate collaboration, inform decision-making, and improve outcomes.
• Machine learning: Machine learning algorithms analyze historical data, market trends, and competitor insights to find new opportunities and potential risks. In an increasingly competitive, data-driven market, employees who understand machine learning provide leaders with the insights needed for strategic decisions, innovation, and operations optimization.
• Cybersecurity: With data breaches on the rise, businesses need cybersecurity experts to keep the organization’s assets secure and minimize the threat of cyberattacks, which can lead to financial, reputational, and legal fallout. 

The increasing importance of technology in the business world has created varied computer science careers within the C-suite. Continue reading to learn about in-demand and emerging careers for MSCS degree graduates. 

Computer Science Careers: Jobs in the C-Suite with an MSCS Degree

A computer science master’s degree program teaches the technical skills and expertise to lead organizations across industries. C-suite roles that reward tech mastery include:

• Chief executive officer (CEO): CEOs lead organizations by directing business operations, creating company policies, and ensuring the achievement of business objectives. 
• Chief technology officer (CTO): CTOs manage technology initiatives, stay current on emerging trends and technology, drive innovation, and create long-term plans.
• Chief information security officer (CISO): CISOs lead an organization’s security team, create cybersecurity plans, assess risks, manage cyber incidents, and ensure their organization complies with laws and regulations.
• Chief data officer (CDO): CDOs oversee data management, including collection, storage, accuracy, security, and compliance. They also analyze data to glean insights to share with stakeholders.
• Chief artificial intelligence officer (CAIO): CAIOs drive a company’s AI strategy, ensuring effective and responsible use of AI technologies to boost innovation and support business growth.

These roles demonstrate the importance of computer science skills in leadership positions and the growing influence of technology in executive decision-making.

Advising and Collaborating with the C-Suite

Non-technical C-suite leaders with working IT and computer science knowledge can drive technology initiatives and support their organization’s goals. Their ability to communicate with technical teams enables them to effectively manage personnel, make informed decisions, solve problems efficiently, promote innovation, manage risks, and allocate resources appropriately.

Computer science professionals across an organization advise and collaborate with C-suite leaders. They provide insights, recommendations, technical expertise, and creative solutions. Their roles include:

• IT director: These professionals oversee technical operations and work with senior leaders to ensure IT strategies align with business goals. They collaborate with other leaders to understand their needs, develop solutions for issues, and recommend updates and enhancements. 
• IT security manager: These managers protect organizations’ networks, data, and systems from cybersecurity threats. They work with senior leaders to create security policies, promote a company-wide security culture, and review risk levels and security status.
• Data analyst: These experts analyze large datasets to find patterns and trends that organizations use to guide decision-making. They can work with senior leaders to define goals, provide recommendations based on their analysis, and create data governance policies for proper data management.
• Software engineer: These engineers create software systems and applications to meet company needs. They can collaborate with senior leaders to provide technical insights, recommend software solutions, prioritize projects to optimize resource allocation and establish quality standards.  

Computer science professionals with specialized skills and experience can leverage their expertise to advance into C-suite roles, where they can influence strategic decisions and shape the company’s future direction.

Earn Your Master’s in Computer Science Online at Tufts

Leaders across industries need computer science skills to navigate effectively in an increasingly technical landscape. The online MSCS degree at Tufts can help you develop the essential technical skills and expertise to pursue C-suite roles. The 100% online program provides the flexibility to balance your studies with personal and professional commitments. Taught by computer science professionals and leading academics, the cutting-edge curriculum offers a solid foundation in computer science theory and programming practice, preparing you for today’s digital challenges and executive leadership roles. 

Next Steps: Apply to Tufts Online MSCS

If you’re ready to take your IT career to the leadership level, start your application to the Tufts MSCS program. If you have questions or need assistance, connect with an enrollment advisor.